London Nightlife
London is known for its crazy nightlife! From dance clubs that are open late to smaller bars with great music there is a nighttime destination for any type of party. Whether your goal is to dance all night long or sit down with friends and have a quiet conversation over drinks, London has something to offer.
Westminster: Staying in Westminster? There is probably no better area for nightlife in London! This “village” is loaded with bars, clubs, pubs, and wine bars. When it comes to late night dancing, Westminster has you covered. Mahiki, one of the featured nightclubs of Westminster, as spotted the princes William and Harry and the club is viewed as a favorite for young royals. It is an easy 2 minute walk from the Green Park tube stop located at 1 Dover Street, Westminster, London, W1S 4LD. Akbar is an Indian inspired bar with authentic décor, creative cocktails, and tasty Indian snacks. Located within the hustle and bustle of Leister Square it is easy to get to at 77 Dean Street, Westminster, London, W1D 3SH. For those of you looking for a calmer evening and some conversation try Gordon’s Wine Bar, London’s oldest wine bar. It’s underground and not easy to find so you will really have to be looking for it. Located at 47 Villiers Street, Westminster, London, WC2N 6NE, right nest to the Charing Cross tube stop. But it is worth the search, the old wine bar and tavern is one of London’s best-kept secrets. Now, if you are feeling a bit peaky or looking for a good pint the best option is to find one of the many pubs around Westminster. The Lamb & Flag is almost 300 years old and used to be known as the Bloody Bucket on account of all the fights that went on in and around the pub. Now, it’s a little calmer but has a great history and real English ales to offer. Located at 33 Rose Street, Westminster, London, WC2E 9EB and about 2 minutes from the Covent Garden tube stop.
Kensington and Chelsea: The posh area of London has some upscale clubs to offer but is still not as busy as the more traditionally popular clubs of Westminster. Although, this is where you may find the princes or other celebrity types dancing the night away. Kensington is definitely chalk full of the up and comers of London. One of the coolest and most hidden places of this area is a quaint, candlelit piano bar aptly named Piano. Come here for a romantic date or a calming evening with friends. It is just a 2 minute walk from the High Street Kensington tube stop located at 106 Kensington High Street, Kensington and Chelsea, London, W8 4SG.
Famous Pubs: Landor Pub, located at 70 Landor Road, Lambeth, London, SW9 9PH near the Clapham North tube stop offers a whole night out. It is a theater pub where you can enjoy pre-show drinks, a hearty meal during intermission, and then after-show drinks to finish off your evening. The great thing about pubs in London is that no matter where you are, you will find a pub and pint not far away. The biggest difference between pubs and bars is food. Most pubs offer beer, some cocktails and hearty food. Bars usually offer good music, fancy cocktails and light snacks, so choose appropriately.
Transportation: If you are counting on the tube for transportation, note that it doesn’t stay open late. In fact, when all is running smoothly the latest the tube will run is usually 00:30. This schedule changes daily though. Be sure to check the schedule before you go out. Keep in mind though that buses usually run all night long and there are always taxis.